Deciding how to build a website often boils down to one thing: cost. Should you do it yourself or hire a pro? Many people hunt for a cheap website designer or turn to cheap web design platforms that promise an easy, affordable launch.
Both options can get your site online, but they come with different costs—some immediate, some long-term. Let’s break down what “cheap” really means for each and which path saves you more overall.
The DIY Route
DIY web design looks like the cheapest way to go at first. Platforms like Webflow, Wix, or Squarespace offer low-cost plans and templates you can tweak without coding. For a small monthly fee, you can have a site live in no time.
If you’re handy with tech and have a sense of design, DIY can be a cheap web design option. You skip the cost of hiring someone and can update your site whenever you want. Many small businesses and creators start here to keep expenses low.
But there’s more to it. Building a site takes time—choosing layouts, colors, and navigation, and making sure it works on all devices. If you’re figuring it out as you go, those hours stack up quickly.
Costs can also climb. Basic plans are cheap, but extras like e-commerce, custom domains, or analytics often require pricier plans. A $12 plan might jump to $50 when you add the tools your site needs to succeed.
Templates can also box you in. If you want a design or feature that’s not standard, you might be stuck without coding skills. DIY is only cheap if your needs are basic and you’ve got time to spare.
The Professional Route
Hiring a cheap website designer or agency costs more upfront. Even budget designers charge a few hundred dollars, and agencies often start in the thousands.
What you’re paying for is skill and speed. A professional can build a site that looks great and works smoothly across devices, handling things like SEO, fast loading, and accessibility. What takes you days or weeks, they can do in hours.
DIY sites can cost you in other ways. A site that looks fine on your laptop might fail on mobile or load too slowly, losing you visitors. A professional avoids these pitfalls, saving you money by keeping your audience engaged.
Not all designers are equal, though. A cheap website designer might use cookie-cutter templates or offer little support after launch. A pricier designer or agency often provides better quality and ongoing help, which can be worth the extra cost.
You get what you pay for, but paying more doesn’t mean wasting money. For many, a professional is the cheapest option when you consider time and missed opportunities.
What “Cheap” Means
The cheapest route isn’t just about the upfront cost—it’s about the big picture.
For simple sites, like blogs or basic portfolios, DIY is tough to beat. Low fees and prebuilt templates keep your budget intact.
But if your website drives your business, a DIY site’s issues could cost you customers. A cheap website designer who builds a solid, professional site might save you more, even if the initial bill is higher.
Think long-term too. DIY sites work until your needs outgrow them. Switching to a custom site later can be pricey. A professional can create a site that grows with you, avoiding future expenses.
Beyond the Launch
A website needs care after it goes live. Updates, security, and backups are ongoing. DIY platforms often bundle some maintenance into their fees, but advanced support costs extra.
Professionals usually charge separately for maintenance—some offer plans, others bill by the hour. Skipping this saves money short-term but risks bigger issues like hacks or downtime. Both options have costs to keep in mind.
This ongoing piece is a hidden part of cheap web design that’s easy to miss. Launching is just step one.
The Final Take
What’s the cheapest way to launch? It depends on your situation.
If you’re on a tight budget and need a simple site, DIY is the cheapest in terms of cash. You’ll pay with your time instead.
If your site needs to perform or you can’t afford a bad first impression, a cheap website designer might be the smarter choice. It costs more upfront but saves time, mistakes, and potential losses.
Cheap isn’t just about the price tag. Sometimes, the cheapest path is the one that gets it right the first time, even if it means spending a bit more.
